Summer Hours’ first record couldn’t have been better received. From Deli Mag’s own glowing review to Alter the Press’s ecstatic write-up, the band’s come a long way with their breezy sound in a short time, especially considering their drummer Griffin Richardson has roots in noise rock. Latest single ‘Close and Closer’ keeps the waves crashing against the shore, as singer Rachel Dannefer keeps the energy going while still managing to sound entirely laid-back. Explore these unlikely contradictions on their SoundCloud. – Mike Levine (@Goldnuggets)

You know.. I don’t think I listen to soul enough, so I guess I forget sometimes how involved a lot of this music can get. For chanteuse Fanesha Fabra at least, these are some dense and swirling pads and beats, fronted by her breathy and powerful soprano, her worlds are every bit as dense and powerful as anything coming from NY these days. Along with producer Chikara Aoshima, electro-soul jams like ‘Take Your Time’ and ‘Transform,’ the Brooklyn artist cools things down while boiling over with soul. – Mike Levine (@Goldnuggets)

Ten Ton Man has been in and out of love, bars, trains, and after such an eclectic journey… the itinerant bluesman has finally released his debut record, ‘Fall Down.’ But for all the stylistic highways Paul Livornese’s scruffy baritone travels throughout Americana, his songs are most effective when used to bring down the hammer, like the judge/jury/executioner style of ‘Dearly,’ a track where he vows justice for those betrayed. Thankfully for the rest of us, he has plenty of songs about redemption here too. See him when he plays ZirZamin on Wed, Mar 27th. – Mike Levine (@Goldnuggets)

Last week New York-based Outernational released their four track EP “’Here Is The Rose” in honor of International Women’s Day. Produced by Tom Morello it features a litany of special guests, including Lindi Ortega, Chad Smith, Bridget Barkan, Gil Sharone, Joe Tomino, Trevor Welch and Sonny Singh. Known for their politically charged message and fiery rock sound, Outernational takes a more celebratory approach for this special occasion. Upbeat dancy number “Here Is the Rose” kicks off the record and is followed by “We Own the Night” which swings with infectious guitar/trumpet riff interplay. “She Craves Spring” slinks along with seductive beats and romantic flair in the form of crisp guitar solos Closing out the record, “Ladies of the Number” showcases the band’s masterful multi-part harmonies and acoustic roots. The EP is available for FREE download here. The band is in the midst of a March residency at Arlene’s Grocery, and will be performing March 13, 20, and 27, then at Bowery Electric on May 10. – Meijin Bruttomesso